VR Headset Buying Guide: The Best Christmas Tech Gifts for 2016

As we close in on the Christmas holiday, sales of VR headsets are continuing to grow. Whether you are buying gifts for the gamer in your life or you want to experience the latest in VR technology for yourself, there are some great options on the market that come with an affordable price tag. Before making your final purchase, be sure to read our VR headset buying guide, which can help you to choose the best option to balance performance and affordability. Keep reading for all the insider details!

VR Headset Buying Guide: Planning Your Budget

For a lot of shoppers, cost is the most important factor when purchasing any product and the same is true for the VR headset. When it comes to cost, there are three tiers of VR headsets available on the market, including: low-end, mid-range and high-end. If you have a tight budget, there are mobile VR headsets, which cost under $100. If you can spend a little more and want to have a premium VR experience, you should go for the headsets similar to PlayStation VR, which will cost up to $400. However, if you have a bigger budget, we strongly suggest you to purchase VR headsets for high-end PCs. Yes, they will cost you over $400, but they provide an unmatched gaming experience.

VR Headset Buying Guide: Finding Compatible Models

The second main factor you need to consider is which VR models will be compatible with your existing gaming and tech devices. If you are a fan of mobile games and already own the latest smartphone, such as the Galaxy S7 or Google Pixel, you should definitely go for either Samsung Galaxy VR or Google Daydream View. On the other hand, if you are a fan of console games and already have a PS4 at home, the new PlayStation VR is your best bet. Just keep in mind that in this case, you will need an additional PlayStation camera. If you are a serious PC gamer who already owns a high-end PC, you should seriously consider Oculus Rift and HTC Vive, two of the best VR headsets on the market.

VR Headset Buying Guide: Considering Your Playing Frequency

If you are a casual gamer, you might not need a high-end VR headset. You may end up spending a lot of money for features that you don’t necessarily need or want. Instead, more affordable mobile headsets like Google Daydream View and Galaxy VR can serve your casual gaming needs. However, if you are a hardcore gamer who wants to set up creative interactions and broadcast games online, the PlayStation VR can. Setting up camera and other accessories for the system is a real pleasure for the hardcore gamers. And the fun will reach a new level if you raise your budget for the HTC Vive, which supports even more amazing accessories.

VR Headset Buying Guide: Which one should you buy?

If you are a serious gamer, there’s simply no alternative to the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive. Console VR headsets, like PlayStation VR takes second place. However, for all the casual gamers who do not prefer to spend much money, mobile VR systems, like Gear VR is the best option.

Be sure to weigh in with your opinion on today’s VR headsets. Which model do you use and which features do you like best? Would you recommend purchasing a certain model?